Developed as a drover's dog, the Giant Schnauzer was practically unknown outside of Bavaria until the early 1900s. The breeds keen intelligence and powerful body also made it a fine choice for police and guard work in Germany. During the 1930s, the first Giant Schnauzers were imported to the United States but it was truly a rare breed until the 1960s. Over the years the Giant Schnauzer has shown outstanding abilities in search and rescue, schutzhund, conformation, obedience and agility thus earning the reputation as a handsome, intelligent and truly versatile working dog.